The Guest by Albert Camus

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Questions and Answers

Who is the author of this story?

Albert Camus

What is Daru's vocational title?

schoolmaster

Where does this story take place?

In Algeria, a colony of France at the time

What is the weather like in this place?

turbulent, sometimes drought, sometimes snow Signup and view all the answers

Is Daru rich or poor?

poor Signup and view all the answers

How does Daru feel about his life?

even though he has little and it's rough, he is satisfied Signup and view all the answers

What is Balducci's vocational title?

gendarme Signup and view all the answers

What does Balducci ask Daru to do?

Deliver the prisoner to Tinguit Signup and view all the answers

What does Daru say to Balducci's request?

that's not my job, I won't hand him over Signup and view all the answers

What does Balducci say when Daru refuses to do as he asks?

You're being a fool, you insulted me Signup and view all the answers

What does Balducci say the reason is for the man being imprisoned?

He killed his cousin with a billhook possibly over a family squabble for grain Signup and view all the answers

How does Daru feel about murderers?

He despises them Signup and view all the answers

What is one similarity between Daru and the prisoner?

Outside of this desert, neither of them could have really lived. (They both belong there) Signup and view all the answers

What does the prisoner gently ask Daru to do?

come with us Signup and view all the answers

How does Daru sleep with the prisoner?

badly, not at all Signup and view all the answers

What does the prisoner do in the night?

get up to pee Signup and view all the answers

What does Daru dream of?

hearing furtive steps around the schoolhouse Signup and view all the answers

What does Daru give the prisoner before he leaves him?

rusk, dates, sugar, and a thousand francs Signup and view all the answers

What does Daru tell the prisoner before leaving him?

The prison and the way to Tinguit is east; the nomads and the way to the pasturelands is south Signup and view all the answers

Does Daru look back after leaving the prisoner?

True Signup and view all the answers

Where does the Arab go at the end?

towards the prison Signup and view all the answers

What is left on Daru's board?

'You handed over our brother. You will pay for this.' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Information about "The Guest"

Author: Written by Albert Camus.
Setting: Takes place in Algeria, a French colony during the time period of the story.
Weather: Characterized as turbulent with alternating drought and snowfall.

Characters and Their Roles

Daru: A schoolmaster living in poverty; is content with his simple and rough life.
Balducci: A gendarme who assigns Daru the task of delivering a prisoner.
The Prisoner: Accused of killing his cousin in a family dispute over grain.

Plot Dynamics

Daru's Occupation: He identifies as a schoolmaster, emphasizing his role in education.
Balducci's Request: Asks Daru to escort the prisoner to Tinguit, which he firmly declines, asserting it is not his responsibility.
Conflict: Daru and Balducci experience tension due to Daru's refusal, leading Balducci to call him a fool.

Daru's Feelings and Morals

Views on Murder: Daru harbors a strong disdain for murderers, highlighting his moral code.
Connection with the Prisoner: Both Daru and the prisoner have a shared existence in the desert, suggesting a sense of belonging.

Nighttime Events

Daru's Sleep: Sleep is troubled; he does not rest well alongside the prisoner.
Prisoner's Actions: The prisoner gets up during the night, indicating his discomfort or need.
Daru's Dream: He dreams of hearing stealthy footsteps, reflecting anxiety about the situation.

Final Actions and Consequences

Daru's Gift: He provides the prisoner with supplies—rusk, dates, sugar, and a significant amount of money (1000 francs) before their separation.
Direction Guidance: Daru informs the prisoner of the paths: one leading to prison and the other to freedom with nomads.
Prisoner's Choice: Ultimately, the prisoner chooses the path towards prison, making a significant decision about his fate.

Implications and Closing Notes

Repercussions for Daru: A threatening note is left on his board, suggesting community backlash for his perceived betrayal: "You handed over our brother. You will pay for this."

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Description

Test your knowledge on Albert Camus' short story 'The Guest.' This quiz covers key details about the characters, setting, and themes of the narrative. Perfect for students studying literature or anyone interested in understanding this thought-provoking work.